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Inspected
to keep you
PROTECTED FREQUENTLY-ASKED
HOME INSPECTION QUESTIONS
Knowledge is power. Use our FAQ
below to learn more about how a home inspection from Pelican State
Inspection will benefit you.
Q. WHAT IS A "HOME INSPECTION"?
A home inspection is a visual non-invasive inspection of the major
system items of the home. Basically the Pelican State home inspector
is looking for problems he can see visually with out doing anything
destructive to the home. Having a home inspected is like giving it a physical check-up. If
problems or symptoms are found, the Pelican State inspector may recommend further
evaluation.
Q.
WHAT WILL IT COST?
You will spend hundreds of thousands of dollars on your home.
Shouldn't you protect that investment by getting the BEST
inspection available? Pelican State Inspection's rates depend
on the size of the home (bigger homes have more to inspect) and
foundation type. A complete home inspection for a typical home will cost
between $275 & $325.
Do not let cost be a factor in deciding whether or not
to have a home inspection, or in the selection of your home
inspector. The knowledge gained from an inspection is well worth the
cost, and the lowest-priced inspector is not necessarily a bargain.
See
Mistake #1.
Q.
WHAT DOES IT INCLUDE?
The standard Pelican State home inspection report will review the condition of
the home's major systems. These systems include Roof, Foundation,
Heating & Air, Plumbing, Electric, Interior, Exterior, Insulation &
Ventilation, and build in Kitchen appliances.
Q. WHEN DO I CALL IN THE HOME INSPECTOR?
A home inspector is typically contacted right after the contract or
purchase agreement has been signed, and is often available within a
few days. However, before you sign, be sure that there is an
inspection clause in the contract, making your purchase obligation
contingent upon the findings of a professional home inspection. This
clause should specify the terms to which both the buyer and seller
are obligated.
Q.
WHY DO I NEED A HOME INSPECTION?
The purchase of a home is probably the largest single investment you
will ever make. You should learn as much as you can about the
condition of the property and the need for any major repairs before
you buy, so that you can minimize unpleasant surprises and
difficulties afterwards.
A home inspection also points out the maintenance that will be
necessary to keep it in good working condition and the positive aspects
of the home. After you have reviewed your Pelican State Inspection
report, you will have a better
understanding of the property you are about to purchase.
If you are planning to sell
your home in the near future, you may wish to have an Pre Listing inspection prior to placing your
home for sale. This will give you a understanding of
conditions which may be discovered by the buyer's home inspector, and an
opportunity to make repairs so that your potential does not get
scared off. If you are currently a home owner, a home inspection may
be used to identify problems in the making and to learn preventive
measures which might avoid costly future repairs.
Q. CAN'T I DO IT MYSELF?
Even the most experienced home owner lacks the knowledge and
expertise of a professional home inspector. Pelican State's state
licensed
inspectors are familiar with all elements of home construction,
their proper installation, and maintenance. We understand
how the home's systems and components are intended to function
together, as well as how and why they fail.
Above all, most buyers find it very difficult to remain
completely objective and unemotional about the house they really
want, and this may affect their judgment.
Q. CAN A HOUSE FAIL INSPECTION?
No. A home inspection is an examination of the current
condition of your prospective home. It is not an appraisal, which
determines market value, or a municipal inspection, which verifies
local code compliance. A home inspector, therefore, will not pass or
fail a house, but rather describe its physical condition and
indicate what may need repair or replacement.
Q. SHOULD I BE PRESENT FOR THE INSPECTION?
It is not necessary for you to be present for the inspection, but it
is strongly encouraged. You can walk along with your Pelican State
Inspection inspector in order to better understand your home and its
systems, observe any problems or defects firsthand, and answer any
questions you might have.
Q. WHAT IF THE INSPECTOR FINDS PROBLEMS?
No house is perfect. Regardless of the age of the home or the price
of the home there are always problems. When the inspector identifies
problems, it doesn't necessarily mean you shouldn't buy the house,
only that you will know in advance what to expect. All problems are
fixable. A seller may adjust the purchase price or contract terms if
major problems are found. If your budget is tight, or if you don't
wish to become involved large repair work, this information will be
extremely important to you.
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